Analysis & Reports

Lockheed Martin proposed converting the SR-71 Blackbird into a Mach 3 interceptor in the 1980s, aiming to target Soviet bombers and AWACS aircraft. The design included internal missile bays for AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles, enhancing its combat capabilities. However, the project was not pursued due to high costs and a shift towards other military aircraft and strategies.

Colonel Richard Sheffield experienced a catastrophic engine failure in the SR-71 Blackbird while flying at Mach 2.88 over Oklahoma on July 29, 1968. Despite the right engine exploding, he chose not to eject due to prior injuries and attempted to control the aircraft during a rough descent. The incident highlights the mechanical challenges faced by the SR-71, which was known for its high-speed reconnaissance capabilities.

An F-22 Raptor crashed near Eglin Air Force Base in May 2020 due to a maintenance error during a routine patrol mission. The pilot ejected safely but sustained minor injuries. The incident resulted in a loss of $201 million for the U.S. Air Force, which has not publicly released the full investigation report.

A wargame assessment revealed that the U.S. Air Force is unprepared to defend Taiwan against a potential Chinese invasion by 2035. Conducted in April 2026, the assessment involved 60 participants and highlighted the inadequacies of current U.S. airpower. The findings indicate that without modernization and increased capabilities, the U.S. risks failing to meet its security commitments in the Western Pacific.

The U.S. Navy announced plans to mothball the USS Boise, a Los Angeles-class attack submarine, due to over a decade of inactivity and maintenance delays. This decision is part of a broader initiative to enhance the Navy's fleet capabilities. The inactivation process timeline is unclear, but it aligns with the Navy's focus on reallocating resources to new submarine classes and improving fleet readiness.

The U.S. Space Force requested a substantial budget increase for FY27, totaling $6.4 billion for missile warning and tracking programs to support the Golden Dome missile defense initiative. Key allocations include $1.4 billion for the Resilient MWT-MEO program and $3.56 billion for the Tracking Layer. Additionally, $1.48 billion is earmarked for the Space Data Network, with a notable rise to $2 billion for Special Space Activities.

The U.S. Air Force has initiated market research for the remanufacture of the B-2 Receiver Countermeasure in Oklahoma City. This process, outlined in a sources sought notice published on April 10, 2023, aims to identify qualified companies capable of restoring unserviceable units. The Air Force anticipates needing between four to 24 units to maintain operational readiness of the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber's defensive systems.

BAE Systems was awarded a $33.5 million contract by the U.S. Navy for maintenance and modernization of the USS Augusta (LCS 34) in San Diego. The contract covers the ship's Fiscal 2026 Docking Selected Restricted Availability, expected to last until August 2027, and includes comprehensive repairs and upgrades to ensure the vessel's readiness for future operations.

Lockheed Martin secured a $4.76 billion contract from the U.S. Army for the production of PAC-3 MSE interceptors, with an estimated completion date of June 30, 2030. The contract includes associated hardware and technical support, reflecting strong international demand for the missile system. Key manufacturing locations include Huntsville, Clearwater, and East Aurora, among others.

Talon Avionics developed the SECTR drone interceptor system in Boise, Idaho, utilizing AI-driven acoustic technology to detect and engage aerial threats. The system features a modular launch platform with up to 100 tubes and operates passively, allowing for stealthy defense against low-cost attack drones. It is designed for military applications, providing a high hit probability and adaptability to various environments.

USS Connecticut (SSN-22) collided with an uncharted seamount in the South China Sea on October 2, 2021, causing severe damage and injuries to several crew members. The submarine has been out of action since and is undergoing extensive repairs at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, with a projected return to service in late 2026. A Navy investigation revealed deficiencies in navigation planning and command climate, prompting accountability measures and institutional changes within the submarine force.

The Kunshan ship is actively engaged in mine clearance operations at sea, utilizing specialized mine clearance equipment and a low-magnetic steel hull to avoid triggering magnetic mines. It effectively targets and destroys anchor mines, demonstrating its capabilities even in challenging sea conditions. The ship's design and equipment make it a valuable asset in modern naval warfare.

The Space Force has set up a pool of 14 vendors to compete for $1.84 billion over the next decade to provide future space monitoring satellites and services. This initiative, known as the Andromeda program, aims to replace the existing Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP) satellites. The new commercial satellites are expected to offer improved maneuverability and longevity in orbit, enhancing the Space Force's capabilities in space monitoring.

The Department of the Air Force has selected Buckley Space Force Base and Malmstrom Air Force Base as potential sites for small nuclear reactors, known as microreactors, to be operational by 2030. This decision is part of the Advanced Nuclear Power for Installations program and is contingent on successful environmental and licensing processes. Microreactors are designed to provide reliable energy for military bases.

BAE Systems secured a $146 million contract to manufacture M776 cannons, which serve as the primary armament for the US Army's M777 towed 155mm howitzer.

Aeon is developing the Zeus tactical missile system in the United States, aiming to produce over 10,000 units annually. The system is designed to enhance precision and adaptability in modern warfare, integrating with both infantry and unmanned platforms. Partnerships with Ukrainian companies are underway to expand its operational capabilities. The system is priced at $50,000 per unit, significantly lower than traditional precision missiles.

The U.S. Army is set to receive $18.75 billion in RDT&E funding for Fiscal Year 2027, focusing on programs such as the Future Long Range Reconnaissance Aircraft (FLRAA) and Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD). FLRAA will receive $2.14 billion, while THAAD is allocated $1.05 billion. The budget also emphasizes counter-drone technology with $542 million, reflecting a strategic shift in defense capabilities. The Army will assume full control of the THAAD program starting in FY27.

Intellian Technologies unveiled a new 2.4-meter tactical flyaway antenna at the Satellite 2026 conference in Washington, D.C. on April 8, 2026. This antenna is designed for military and government users, providing simultaneous X-band and Mil Ka-band connectivity for secure mobile communications. It is compatible with the Wideband Global SATCOM network, enhancing communication capabilities for mobile units in the field.

Vantor announced plans to expand its satellite constellation to 50 satellites by 2029, enhancing its ability to capture high-resolution images of any location on Earth every 15 minutes. This development aims to improve military reconnaissance capabilities, particularly in conflict zones like Ukraine and the Middle East, where accurate imagery is crucial for operations. The integration of AI will further enable effective data management and targeting for military forces globally.

The U.S. Air Force has introduced the F-47 as its next generation air dominance fighter, capable of controlling up to 8 AI-driven drones. This fighter is designed to replace the F-22 Raptor, featuring advanced stealth and speed capabilities exceeding Mach 2. The program aims to ensure U.S. air superiority in future conflicts.